These are the weird things hoarding Brits are keeping in their cars

Mannequins, a bale of hay, 52 pies – and a false leg are just some of the weird and wonderful things Brits are keeping in their cars, a study has found.

A wicker reindeer, two single mattresses and even a urine container are also among the wackiest things left in the nation’s cars.

Others have stashed cat litter, a Ouija board and even a wedding dress in their boot.

The poll of 2,000 drivers found one quarter are embarrassed by the cleanliness of their car, with an equal number admitting to regularly losing items in their vehicle.

And one in twenty admitted to NEVER cleaning the inside of their car.

Simon McCulloch, from comparethemarket.com, which commissioned the research said: “Many motorists are on the road so much that it’s no surprise that our cars can become a home away from home.

“However, with this comes a greater risk of attracting unwanted attention from car thieves.”

The study also revealed a hamster cage, underwear and even handcuffs are among other items hoarded in Brits’ automobiles.

The unusual objects also include dirty nappies, parts of a railway engine and a tank of water – filled with fish.

You wouldn’t be stuck at Ascot if you were hitching a ride with one car owner who stores 160 hats in their car.

But you might want to trend carefully around the car owner stashing 24 rolling pins in their wagon.

The research also revealed drivers are keeping empty bottles, bags and make up in their car for at least a month before clearing them out.

We all have moments where we say we will go to the gym but never get around to it, which is probably why one in 10 are hoarding their gym kit in their boot.

Others will stash clothes, toys or even personal documents.

The study, conducted via OnePoll.com, also found just under one third of motorists are stowing away objects in their vehicles for months at a time.

And one in 10 admit they leave things to fester in their ‘fendered-friends’ for over a year.

Simon McCulloch added: “Remember that the majority of policies will only cover items providing they are locked away and out of sight.

“The amount covered by most policies will be fairly low, so keep that in mind when leaving high-value items in the car – our research shows that a staggering four million motorists have left a set of house keys or a mobile phone in their car for over a month.

“If the worst does happen and you’re a victim of theft, it’s also worth noting that some home and contents insurance may cover you, however the same rules will apply as those associated with your car insurance.”